Technology

Understanding Mixers and the Signal Path

Editor’s Note: As I travel the country participating in dozens of state “MEA” shows where training sessions are offered on using live sound mixers in the school, the most common problems that I’ve observed teachers facing is a lack of basic knowledge of the audio signal path, from microphone to speakers. This typically makes for a lot of guesswork by the director, and less-than-optimal sound operation, be it from a major field event, or just running your PA system to power the school talent show. Live sound is both art and science. The art is what you’ll use your ears for, but understanding the science is what gives your ears what they will want to hear. That starts with understanding the mixer, and the all-important signal path. - ML

Breezin’ Thru ‘Next Gen’ Edition

With the all-new ‘Next Gen’ edition for 2016-17, Breezin’ Thru Theory is now accessible on any device, including computers, smartphones, Chromebooks, iPads and other tablets.

Technology: Using Chords In Notion

Goal and Objectives: The goal is to get you composing music in notion using a repeating diatonic chord sequence.

Digital Mixers Demystified

Digital mixers have been around for several years now, and have evolved rapidly in form, formats, and types of product offerings.

MACCornerTechnology Enhances Teaching and Learning in the Music Classroom

Does technology really help us in the music classroom? You bet! However, it largely depends on how and when you use specific technologies within the teaching process.

The Shure MV88 and ShurePlus MOTIV Recording App for iOS – Easy, Affordable Technology You Can Use in Your Music Class Today

As I participate in putting together session presentations for various “MEA” shows around the country where TI:ME (the Technology Institute for Music Educators) hosts training events, I often encounter music teachers who very much would like to introduce technology into their programs, but have no idea where to start.

Technology: Dynamic Music Solutions In and Out of the Classroom!

In today’s world of expanding expectations and standards, achieving success with our students has to be more than just “practice makes perfect.” Perhaps because music is an elective subject, music teachers are in the vanguard of education. Consider this example of how creatively applied technology lifted a student with ease.

Solutions for Teachers Celebrates Great Success at The Midwest Clinic

Technology and Assessment presentation draws huge audience

Chicago, IL: The founders of Solutions for Teachers (SFT) were excited to see a packed house for their presentation “An Easier Way to Test Your Students and Get Your Life Back”. This company, founded by two band directors, had standing room only as they demonstrated the assessment system and software that they had created for their own band students.

Creation is Key

Technology has made it easier than ever before for students to create their own music. Whether using notation, loops, Midi sequencing, or recording, any child can create and share a tangible musical creation in minutes. Where does this fit into your music education curriculum? Does creation only exist as part of general music, or a theory class, or in a music technology lab? Or is music creation an essential component in all music courses at any level? Let’s explore two reasons why all students should consistently engage in active music creation:

Do You Really Want the Drums Any Louder?

If your drummer plays like Chad Smith then the answer is of course, yes! Miking drums is both an art and a science and like anything else takes some trial and error, because every drum kit and performance location is different. However, there are a few fundamentals that apply and will help you get the best sound out of your amplified drum kit.

How Relevant is Your Teaching: Mastering Music Can FLIP the Switch!

The times they, are a changing.” Accountability is king. But accountability needs to have meaning beyond raw data. We music educators may think we are above the fray because our work is on public display. Is it really OK that homework is merely repetitive practice for mastery of what’s already being taught and practiced in the classroom? 

Microphones for School Ensembles

“Capturing the sound of an instrument starts at the microphone.  What’s happened with music and audio, both live and recorded, is similar to what’s happened with digital cameras.  You can get something really cheap or almost free (iPhone) that will “do the job”.  But if you want great quality photo’s you need a great lens. The camera body will change with technology but the lens is glass and that’s not something that changes with technology for the most part.   It’s the same with sound equipment.  The microphone remains as the most important tool to capture sound, and all the technology and digital processing comes later.” Doug Swan, National Sales Director for Audio Technica Microphones. 

As Doug so eloquently points out, microphones are the initial input source for sound in an audio system or recording. A bad microphone is like a bad reed, no matter how great the instrument or player is, if the initial input source is inadequate the entire sound is compromised. While there are many brands and models of microphones available, this article will focus on the type of microphone needed for school applications.